Frequently Asked Questions

Emergency Response & First Steps

How quickly can you respond to an emergency?

Rush Dry provides a 90-minute or less emergency response throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex. Fast response is critical to limit water spread, prevent mold growth, and reduce overall restoration costs.

Are you available 24/7?

Yes. Emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Our dispatch team and certified technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

What should I do immediately after discovering water damage?

If it’s safe to do so:

  • Turn off electricity in affected areas
  • Stop the water source if possible
  • Move valuables to a dry area
  • Avoid using household vacuums to remove water

Early professional drying helps prevent mold growth and structural damage.

What should I do after a fire?

Do not enter the property until authorities say it’s safe. Avoid contact with soot or ash and do not attempt cleanup yourself. Document visible damage if possible and contact a professional restoration company to secure the property and begin mitigation.

What should I do while waiting for help to arrive?

Avoid disturbing damaged areas and keep people away from affected spaces. Do not attempt major cleanup involving contaminated water, smoke residue, or mold. Early professional response helps prevent mistakes that can worsen the damage.

Water Damage Restoration

How quickly should water damage be addressed?

Immediately. Water can spread into walls, flooring, and insulation within hours. Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours if moisture is not properly dried.

How long does water damage restoration take?

Emergency extraction typically begins quickly, followed by 3–5 days of drying for most residential properties. Full restoration timelines vary depending on damage severity and any reconstruction required.

What happens if water damage is left untreated?

Untreated water damage worsens over time. Materials break down, hidden moisture leads to mold growth, electrical systems can be compromised, and repair costs escalate rapidly. The same issue that might cost $3,000 to fix immediately can exceed $20,000+ if left untreated for weeks.

What is the difference between water damage and flood damage?

Water damage usually comes from internal sources like burst pipes or appliances. Flood damage comes from external sources and is considered contaminated, requiring additional safety protocols, sanitization, and material removal.

Mold Remediation & Mold Concerns

Is mold dangerous to live with?

Yes. Mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, headaches, skin irritation, and other health concerns—especially for children, seniors, and individuals with asthma or compromised immune systems.

How fast does mold grow after water damage?

Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours when moisture is present. This is why rapid drying and dehumidification are essential after any water intrusion.

Can mold grow behind walls without being visible?

Yes. Mold often develops behind drywall, under flooring, and inside insulation. Musty odors, past water damage, or ongoing moisture are common warning signs.

What is mold remediation and when is it necessary?

Mold remediation is the professional process of containing, removing, and preventing mold growth. It is typically necessary when mold is widespread, recurring, or linked to ongoing moisture issues.

Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration

Can smoke damage spread beyond the burned area?

Yes. Smoke and soot particles can travel through HVAC systems and airflow paths, affecting rooms far from the fire source.

Can smoke odor be completely removed?

In most cases, yes. Professional deodorization targets odor at the source rather than masking it, helping prevent lingering smells.

Should I try to clean smoke or fire damage myself?

No. Improper cleaning can permanently set soot stains and odors. Fire and smoke cleanup should be handled by trained professionals using proper techniques and equipment.

Insurance, Costs & Claims

Does insurance cover water damage restoration?

Most homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as burst pipes or appliance failures. Coverage varies by policy, and flood damage typically requires separate coverage.

Does insurance cover mold remediation?

Insurance coverage for mold remediation depends on the cause of the mold growth and your specific policy. Generally, if mold results from a covered peril—such as a sudden pipe burst or storm damage—it is typically covered. Mold caused by long-term neglect or gradual leaks is usually not covered. Most standard homeowners insurance policies have mold coverage limits ranging from $1,000–$10,000.

Will filing a claim increase my insurance premium?

Every policy is different. One claim does not always increase premiums, but repeated claims may. Proper documentation and early mitigation help support accurate claim handling.

How much does restoration typically cost?

Restoration costs vary based on severity and scope:

  • Water damage: $1,500–$5,000 for minor incidents; $10,000+ for major flooding
  • Fire damage: $3,000–$30,000+ depending on severity
  • Mold remediation: $500–$6,000

Free assessments and detailed estimates are provided before work begins. Emergency services may begin immediately to prevent further damage, with full restoration estimates provided within 24–48 hours.

Restoration Process & Professional Standards

Why choose professional restoration over DIY?

Professional restoration addresses hidden moisture, contamination, and structural risks that DIY efforts often miss. Incomplete cleanup can lead to mold growth and costly future repairs.

Are your technicians in-house or subcontractors?

All work is performed by in-house technicians, not rotating subcontractors. This ensures consistent quality, accountability, and communication.

Are your technicians certified?

Yes. Technicians are IICRC-certified and receive ongoing training in water damage restoration, mold remediation, fire and smoke restoration, and structural drying.

Company Information & Service Area

What areas do you serve?

Rush Dry serves the entire Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, including Dallas, Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, Richardson, Carrollton, Irving, Arlington, Fort Worth, and surrounding communities.

What types of properties do you service?

We service both residential and commercial properties, including homes, apartments, offices, retail spaces, medical facilities, schools, warehouses, and industrial buildings.

Getting Started

How quickly should I call after water or fire damage?

As soon as possible. Early response reduces secondary damage, supports insurance documentation, and helps restore the property more efficiently.

How do I get started?

You can contact our team or submit a request through the website. A Rush Dry Restoration team member will respond promptly and help guide you through next steps.

Need Immediate Assistance?
Water, fire, or mold damage can worsen quickly if left untreated. Professional assessment and rapid response help protect your property and reduce long-term costs.